"There's a self-expansive aspect of gratitude. Very possibly, it's a little known law of nature: the more gratitude you have, the more you have to be grateful for." 

- Elaine St. James, author, leader of the simplicity movement

The "official" season of thankfulness and gratitude is upon us. While life bestows many blessings upon us, it also hands us challenges and, on occasion, heartache. In the midst of challenges and heartaches, it's even more important - as hard as it can be - to be grateful. Grateful for challenges that make us stronger. Grateful for memories and lessons learned that help ease heartache. Grateful for the moments that take our breath away.

In today's world, there are times we're so connected that we're disconnected. We're. Just. So. Busy. Let us not be so busy that we keep putting off that call we've been meaning to make, that "thank you" we've been meaning to say or send, that lunch we've been meaning to have with an old friend. Set aside a few minutes every morning and night this season for gratitude. It will have a profound effect on your attitude, mood and circumstances. Guaranteed.

Thank you for your readership. We appreciate it.

Enjoy the journey,

Doug Burgum

Founder and Chairman, Kilbourne Group

P.S. Thank you to all former and current service men and women.

Opening Soon:
KotiKites & WindSports

KotiKites & WindSports, a specialty retail outlet celebrating "all things wind", will be opening the week of November 22 at 102 Broadway. KotiKites is the region's expert on stunt kiting, traditional kiting, and wind sports. KotiKites is also the inventor and distributor of the KitoReel.

"We are the area's soon-to-be 'landmark location'," says Trevor Ibach, president of KotiKites & WindSports. "We specialize in everything to do with wind: from the traditional form of kite flying you did as a child, to the wide range of wind power sports, along with lawn art, novelty gift items and unique toys."

Trevor says the store has a fun and relaxed atmosphere where patrons can come in and be enticed to stay and wander around or have a sit in the "cabana area" to chat with fellow kite enthusiasts or watch video displays. He says the store looks forward to bringing several Koti Kite Klubs and events to the area, such as Koti Kites Kids Klub (4K) and Koti Kites Kollege Klubs.

Store hours are; Monday thru Friday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5:00 p.m.  KotiKites & WindSports can be reached at 701-356-KITE (5483) and www.facebook.com/KotiKites.

Welcome to the neighborhood, KotiKites & WindSports!